Potential Locations - grgcnnr/LoT GitHub Wiki

Nothing is decided. This page captures early thinking for the steering group to discuss.

Option 1 β€” Partnership with Nelson Public Library (Elma Turner)

The simplest and highest-impact option would be to embed the LoT within the existing NCC library system β€” similar to how Hamilton City Libraries has integrated a Library of Things into its branches.

How it might work:

  • LoT items housed within or alongside Elma Turner Library, or at another location but tied to the same catalogue system
  • Members use their existing library card to borrow
  • Operational support from library staff and infrastructure

Pros:

  • Council-funded β€” reduces dependence on community fundraising
  • Existing foot traffic, visibility, and trusted brand
  • Shared IT/booking infrastructure (potentially LibCal, which NCC may already license)
  • Elma Turner Library already lends sewing machines β€” precedent exists

Cons:

  • Requires NCC buy-in, which takes time and depends on council priorities
  • Space within the library may be limited β€” tools and bulky equipment are harder to accommodate than books
  • Less autonomy for the LoT to set its own policies and hours
  • Librarians didn't sign up for this role β€” may require additional training and resources to manage a tool lending library

Option 2 β€” Standalone / Leased Premises

The LoT operates from its own dedicated space, leased or borrowed from a landlord or partner organisation. Several specific sites have been mentioned:

329 Trafalgar Square (Trafalgar Centre area)

  • Currently being investigated
  • Commercial rates lease but ideal location and size
  • Concern raised that it may not be available long-term β€” to be confirmed

Refinery Building, Hardy Street

  • Possibility of a very cheap lease
  • May no longer be classified as earthquake-prone following recent definition changes β€” needs confirming
  • Central location

River-side building near Rutherford Park (former Salvation Army site)

  • Good location and size
  • Believed to be owned by WakatΕ«, who have longer-term development plans for the area
  • Currently occupied by Kiwi Journeys
  • Likely not available

Option 3 β€” Co-location with Partner Organisations

Several people have raised the idea of a shared "third space" building that could house multiple complementary initiatives together.

Organisations mentioned as potential co-tenants:

  • Youth Hub and Family Space
  • Bike Hub Nelson β€” a town-centre branch has been discussed as aspirational
  • Nelson Environment Centre (NEC) β€” already identified as a potential umbrella org (see Governance-Options)
  • Make/Shift Spaces β€” shared community economy ethos
  • NTCF Repair cafe β€” shared community economy ethos, currently operating in roving locations and at the WAA

Pros:

  • Shared rent and operational costs
  • Greater visibility and foot traffic from multiple audiences
  • Stronger case for grants as a multi-purpose community hub
  • Potentially supports the LoT's "third space" kaupapa beyond just lending items
  • Reciprocal support and resourcing. For example, the LoT could provide tools for NEC workshops, while NEC could provide volunteers or shared admin support.

Cons

  • More stakeholders in every decision β€” requires strong governance and communication to manage effectively
  • Potential for mission drift if the LoT becomes too closely tied to another organisation's priorities
  • Larger space required, harder to find and fit out centrally

Considerations for Any Space

Factor Notes
Accessibility Walkable from central Nelson; on bus routes; accessible for people carrying equipment. Parking for picking up large items
Size Enough for shelving, a work/inspection area, some public-facing space, and room for workshops / community events
Loading access Items need to be brought in and out β€” ideally ground floor with vehicle access
Cost Rent is the largest potential operational cost; subsidised or in-kind space significantly changes the funding model
Tenure Short-term leases create instability and uncertainty for patrons. A longer-term commitment is preferable once established
Consent / Zoning Community use in commercial premises may require consent β€” Pierre Hammond has offered to advise